Applied Language Institute

The Applied Language Institute (ALI) offers a wide variety of programs and courses for people from all over the world.

Some of ALI’s services include:

• Intensive English Program -- by enrolling in the Intensive English Program, students can prepare for study at Missouri S&T, improve their general English skills, and prepare for careers that require the use of English.
• Support services program for visiting scholars, their wives and children
• Dissertation/thesis assistance (English language assistance) or referrals to local editors
• Assistance with academic applications and recommendation letters
• Mentoring
• Private tutoring
• Specialized assistance
• Advisement services
• English Language Computer Learning Center
• Cultural adjustment/social opportunities
• Initial arrival transportation to Rolla from the St. Louis airport

 Why Missouri S&T'S Applied Language Institute?  

• An experienced and professional staff and faculty
• Small classes 
• Application of the latest technological and pedagogical methodologies
• Supportive academic and local community 

 Intensive English Program

The Intensive English Program (IEP) offers an integrated curriculum that helps students develop a high level of proficiency in all skill areas of the English language. The IEP focuses on students developing a solid understanding and usage of academic English. The full-time curriculum includes a minimum of 20 hours of coursework per week, plus individual mentoring and time spent in the ALI's English Language Computer Learning Center.

Upon arrival, students are tested to determine their level of English proficiency. Each student is then placed in the appropriate level of coursework in each skill area: reading, listening comprehension, grammar, writing and verbal skills.
Most students in the IEP are international students with F-1 visas. All F-1 students are required to be enrolled full-time in their stated course of study. Full-time enrollment in the IEP requires that the student be enrolled in 20 hours of IEP course work.

Course Levels offered:

General English (GE): Beginner/Low-intermediate proficiency
Introduction to Academic English (IAE): High-intermediate proficiency
English for Academic Purposes (EAP): Advanced proficiency

IEP Course Work

General English:

Introduction to Academic English:

English for Academic Purposes:

Individualized Needs Courses:

A variety of courses are scheduled to meet individual needs of current students.

Verbal Skills Classes Include:

Additional Vocabulary Courses Could Include:

Other Specialized Courses:

 Course Placement

Students are required to complete a series of assessment tests to determine their level of proficiency in the English language. Assessment testing occurs at the beginning and the end of the semester. Tests include the Michigan Test, Test of Writing Proficiency, Test of Listening Proficiency, and the Oral Proficiency Evaluation

Beginning of Semester Testing Results

• If a student’s performance indicates readiness for university coursework, the appropriate university personnel will be notified of the IEP’s recommendation for full-time university coursework.
• If a student’s performance shows some strengths and weaknesses, the appropriate university personnel will be notified of the IEP’s recommendation for part-time IEP course work and part-time university course work.
• If a student’s performance indicates that the student is not ready for university course work, that student will be placed for full-time IEP course work at the appropriate level of study.

To be eligible for university course work, the student must have acceptance in a university academic program:

At the end of each semester, IEP students complete assessment testing. The scores on these tests, and their performance/grades in their IEP classes, are used by IEP faculty to develop recommendations concerning advancement within and completion of the IEP.

Completion of the IEP is possible through two avenues 

• The student has received the required scores through English placement testing and has the recommendation of IEP faculty.
• The student’s English testing scores demonstrate strengths, which combined with grades in coursework at an advanced level, and the recommendation from IEP faculty, qualify him to complete the program.

Length of time recommended for English studies

If a student wants a certificate of completion from Missouri S&T’s IEP program, he must meet the criteria stated above. Students who start the English program with very limited skills will probably need to attend the language program for a minimum of three semesters. In order to gain the most from the English program, it is recommended that students begin their studies at the beginning of a semester. For students who arrive at the mid-semester point, every effort will be made to place the student at a level of study where they will be most successful in their English studies. This is an intensive study program. Students are expected to work very hard to achieve their language goals.

Intensive English Schedule of Classes

International Student Orientation is held two to three days before the beginning of classes and is required for all new Intensive English program students.

• Fall term begins in August and ends in December.
• Winter term begins in at the beginning of January and ends in the middle of May.
• Summer term begins in at the beginning of June and usually ends at the end of July.
• Fall semester begins in the middle of August and ends in the middle of December.
• Mid-term enrollment is available in the Intensive English Program in March for the winter semester and in October for the fall Semester. Please contact the Office of International Affairs at ia@mst.edu for exact information on each semester's mid-term enrollment dates.

Policies for Student Behavior

• The IEP has strict attendance policies. Students must contact their teacher or IEP coordinator if they are ill or are unable to attend classes. Students can be dismissed from the program if they have an excessive number of unexcused absences.
• Students are expected to speak English during classes and while they are on the premises of the Intensive English Program.
• Students should be courteous and supportive of classmates and members of the IEP.
• Students are expected to be active participants in their English courses.
• Students must complete all class assignments and homework.
• Students must purchase all required textbooks for their classes.
• Students are encouraged to purchase recommended ESL dictionaries and reference materials.
• Students must meet all the requirements of their visa type: full-time enrollment, satisfactory progress towards their stated degree program. For more information click on SEVIS requirements.

  Student Experiences in IEP

“When I came to the USA six months ago, I couldn’t speak English. Also I couldn’t understand anybody, but now my English is very good!"

Bader Alotaibi
Saudi Arabia

“I think the IEP is an excellent place to learn the English language. I’m so glad to be in this institute."

Hussain Al Rabie
Saudi Arabia

 “The first time I studied in IEP, I felt discouraged. But then after the fourth month, I can talk very well with any person. Thanks for teaching me."

Abdullah Al Ruwaili
Saudi Arabia